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by Thomas Webster on Thu, Jul 22, 2021 @ 09:07 AM
Alberta SAGD operations require carefully controlled fluid pressures, so mechanical seals and seal support systems are critical to their success. The climate and high-viscosity fluids in SAGD can create especially difficult environments for mechanical seals. Fortunately, proper API 682 Seal Plan implementation can protect those seals and ensure safe, reliable operation.
SAGD equipment may require a variety of different API 682 external flush plans. API Plan 32 is one common example. These plans are well-documented, but there is more to successful implementation than just selecting a plan from a catalogue. For total confidence in your API Plan 32 design/build, the best option is to rely on the expertise of an experienced seal support systems supplier.
Below, we’ll look at what Plan 32 is, a few design considerations, and how partnering with an experienced seal support systems supplier for an API Plan 32 design/build ensures you get a system that’s efficient, reliable, and cost-effective.
What Is API Plan 32?
API Plan 32 delivers a clean, external fluid to the seal chamber for flushing and lubrication. This plan is used when the process fluid itself is too corrosive, abrasive, hot, or otherwise unsuitable for lubricating and cooling the seal.
The objective of Plan 32 is to isolate the seal face from the process fluid by injecting the external flush fluid into the seal chamber via a close-clearance throat bushing. Because some flush fluid will enter the system and mix with the process fluid, the fluids must be compatible.
A good API Plan 32 design/build must be tailored to the fluid system. The process fluid, flush fluid, piping, pumps, seals, operating conditions, and many other variables can significantly affect a flush plan’s design. A rigorous design/build process is essential to prevent seal failure and keep SAGD operations running safely and efficiently.
API Plan 32 Design/Build Considerations
When it comes to seal support systems, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Every component must be carefully designed for the application parameters. For a seal support system to perform optimally in SAGD operations, there are many variables to account for. Below are a few examples of special considerations that may need to be taken during an API Plan 32 design/build:
| Requirement | Design Considerations |
| The external flush source must provide a continuous and reliable flow. | Waterline pressure is variable and can drop below the required seal chamber pressure. The flush system may need an external pump and reservoir to maintain adequate pressure. |
| The flush fluid must be delivered at 15 to 25 psi (1 bar to 1.7 bar) above seal chamber pressure. | The throat bushing clearance must be designed to operate reliably while maintaining pressure at the process temperature. Instrumentation is needed at key locations to monitor pressure. |
| For high-temperature process fluids, the flush fluid temperature must be low enough to cool the seal face. | Ensure the flush source can consistently deliver the required flow and temperature. Existing equipment may need to be retrofitted. |
| The flush fluid must be free of damaging abrasives. | A filtration system and/or bypass loop may be required. |
| The flush fluid must be compatible with the process fluid. | If using a flush fluid other than water, additional configuration to the pump, reservoir, or piping may be required. |
Other custom features may include high-point vents to clear trapped air, low-point drains to purge flush fluids, or bypass loops to provide a continuous supply of flush fluid during maintenance.
There’s a lot to consider when starting an API Plan 32 design/build. Making sure the design fits the application requires both general seal support expertise and a comprehensive understanding of the specific process.
Leave API Plan 32 Design/Build to the Experts
Given time, resources, and the right skills, a SAGD operation that needs Plan 32 installation, replacement, or upgrading might be able to do the job in-house—but there’s a better way. An expert seal support systems supplier can help by designing, building, testing, and delivering a Plan 32 system optimized for your operation.
When beginning an API Plan 32 design/build with Edmonton Valve & Fitting, an experienced Field Advisor first performs an onsite assessment. This assessment allows us to:
- Understand the process details, including fluid characteristics, pump rate, seal design, and facility layout
- Evaluate the source, quality, and reliability of the flush fluid source
- Determine how existing or planned infrastructure will affect the design
A Field Advisor conducts layout support for Plan 32 based on this assessment and provides technical specifications for the customer to review. Upon approval, certified technicians install Plan 32.
By partnering with a seal support system service provider, you ensure your API Plan 32 design/build goes smoothly and every factor is accounted for. You can be confident you’re getting the best possible product while enjoying benefits like:
- Fast, convenient project management
- Cost savings
- Onsite field testing
- Warranty service
In short, it may be possible to take on an API Plan 32 design/build project in-house, but an experienced, local seal support systems supplier can design a high-quality seal support system tailored to your process.
Experienced, Local Field Advisors
At Edmonton Valve & Fitting, we are committed to providing full-service, fluid handling solutions in central and northern Alberta. We earn our customers' trust and confidence by thoroughly understanding their requirements and delivering on time, every time.
We build our API 682-compliant systems locally, so you get what you need quickly. We test all systems thoroughly to validate safety, reliability, and ease of maintenance. All our products are backed by Swagelok’s Limited Lifetime Warranty—one of the strongest in the industry.
When you’re ready, Field Advisors at Edmonton Valve & Fitting can perform an onsite evaluation to understand your process and design/build needs. Our Field Advisors are experts in API 682 implementation for SAGD operations and will make sure you get the seal support solution you need.